U.S. patent application number 14/585149 was filed with the patent office on 2015-04-23 for hard composite with deformable constituent and method of applying to earth-engaging tool.
The applicant listed for this patent is National Oilwell Varco, L.P.. Invention is credited to Douglas B. Caraway, Eric F. Drake, Harold Sreshta.
Application Number | 20150107908 14/585149 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 43533969 |
Filed Date | 2015-04-23 |
United States Patent
Application |
20150107908 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Sreshta; Harold ; et
al. |
April 23, 2015 |
HARD COMPOSITE WITH DEFORMABLE CONSTITUENT AND METHOD OF APPLYING
TO EARTH-ENGAGING TOOL
Abstract
A hardmetal composite used as wear-resistant surfaces and inlays
in earth-engaging equipment includes more than one hardphase. At
least one hardphase has a high average particle size, for example,
from 100 .mu.m to 2000 .mu.m. The hardphases vary in terms of
particle size, hardness, and binder content, and at least one
hardphase includes a particulate constituent capable of plastic
deformation that comprises at least 1% residual porosity.
Inventors: |
Sreshta; Harold; (Conroe,
TX) ; Drake; Eric F.; (Galveston, TX) ;
Caraway; Douglas B.; (Conroe, TX) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
National Oilwell Varco, L.P. |
Houston |
TX |
US |
|
|
Family ID: |
43533969 |
Appl. No.: |
14/585149 |
Filed: |
December 29, 2014 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
12536624 |
Aug 6, 2009 |
8945720 |
|
|
14585149 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
175/425 ;
51/295 |
Current CPC
Class: |
Y10T 428/249953
20150401; E21B 10/46 20130101; B22F 2005/001 20130101; B22F 2998/10
20130101; B22F 1/025 20130101; C22C 19/03 20130101; Y10T 428/12042
20150115; B24D 3/06 20130101; B22F 7/08 20130101; B24D 3/342
20130101; B22F 2998/10 20130101; C22C 2204/00 20130101; C22C 19/07
20130101; B22F 1/025 20130101; C22C 29/08 20130101; C22C 26/00
20130101; B22F 3/17 20130101; B22F 3/04 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
175/425 ;
51/295 |
International
Class: |
E21B 10/46 20060101
E21B010/46; B24D 3/34 20060101 B24D003/34; C22C 29/08 20060101
C22C029/08; B24D 3/06 20060101 B24D003/06 |
Claims
1-19. (canceled)
20. A method forming a drill bit comprising teeth, each of the
teeth having a crest and a tang, the method comprising: selecting
one or more hardphases comprising a hardmetal; encapsulating
particles of the one or more hardphases in a malleable matrix
material to form first and second hardmetal composites, a volume
fraction of the one or more hardphases for the first hardmetal
composite being smaller than a volume fraction of the one or more
hardphases for the second hardmetal composite; applying a desired
amount of the encapsulated particles to an outer surface of the
drill bit such that the first hardmetal composite is applied to the
crest of the teeth and the second hardmetal composite is applied to
the tang of the teeth; and finishing the drill bit by forging.
21. The method of claim 20, wherein the hardmetal is carbide, one
of the one or more hardphases has a particle size of from 100 .mu.m
to 2000 .mu.m, and a total of the volume fractions is greater than
50%.
22. The method of claim 20, wherein the one or more hardphases
display bi-modal or multi-modal particle size distribution.
23. The method of claim 20, wherein the one or more hardphases
comprise at least two hardphases, wherein the particulate
constituent of the two hardphases comprises a particulate
constituent capable of plastic deformation that comprises at least
1% residual porosity.
24. The method of claim 20, wherein the volume fraction of the
malleable matrix is from 5% to 60% of the encapsulated
particles.
25. A method of forming a solid state forged product, the solid
state forged product comprising a drill bit, the drill bit
comprising teeth, each of the teeth having a crest and a tang,
comprising: selecting a primary hardphase and at least one
secondary hardphase, at least one of the primary and at least one
secondary hardphases having at least 15% residual porosity and
which exhibit plastic deformation under pressure, wherein a
particulate constituent of the at least one secondary hardphase has
an average particle size smaller than an average particle size of
the primary hardphase; forming first and second hardmetal
composites by encapsulating particles of the primary and at least
one secondary hardphases in a steel matrix comprised of iron
powder, a volume fraction of the primary and secondary hardphases
for the first hardmetal composite being smaller than a volume
fraction of the primary and secondary hardphases for the second
hardmetal composite; applying a desired amount of the encapsulated
particles to an outer surface of the drill bit such that the first
hardmetal composite is applied to the crest of the teeth and the
second hardmetal composite is applied to the tang of the teeth; and
finishing the drill bit by forging.
26. The method of claim 25, wherein the primary hardphase has an
average particle size of from 100 .mu.m to 2000 .mu.m.
27. The method of claim 25, wherein the particulate constituent of
the at least one secondary hardphase further comprises an average
particle size of from 50 .mu.m to 300 .mu.m.
28. The method of claim 28, wherein the particulate constituent of
the at least one secondary hardphase further comprises an average
particle size of from 50 .mu.m to 100 .mu.m.
29. The method of claim 28, wherein the particulate constituent of
the at least one secondary hardphase further comprises a binder
content greater than 10 wt %.
30. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one secondary
hardphase further comprises a hardness less than 1500 VHN.
31. The method of claim 25, wherein the primary hardphase comprises
a Co binder and the at least one secondary hardphase further
comprises a Ni binder.
32. The method of claim 25, wherein the volume fraction of the
primary hardphase plus the volume fraction of the at least one
secondary hardphase is greater than 50 vol % of the solid state
forged product.
33. The method of claim 25, wherein the volume fraction of the
primary hardphase plus the volume fraction of the at least one
secondary hardphase is greater than 60 vol % of the solid state
forged product.
34. The method of claim 25, wherein the steel matrix is comprised
of iron powder with an average particle size of less than 20
.mu.m.
35. The method of claim 34, wherein the steel matrix is in the form
of a malleable shell of the encapsulated particles of the primary
and at least one secondary hardphases to form the encapsulated
particles.
36. The method of claim 35, wherein a volume fraction of the
malleable matrix is from 5% to 60% of each of the encapsulated
particles.
37. The method of claim 25, wherein the primary hardphase and the
at least one secondary hardphase comprise a hardmetal chosen from
the group consisting of carbide, diamond, cubic boron nitride, and
ceramic.
38. The method of claim 25, wherein the solid state forged product
is an earth-engaging tools.
39. The method of claim 20, wherein the volume fraction of the
primary and the at least one secondary hardphases for the first
hardmetal composite is about 65%, and the volume fraction of the
primary and the at least one secondary hardphases for the second
hardmetal composite is about 75%.
40. The method of claim 25, wherein the volume fraction of the
primary and the at least one secondary hardphases for the first
hardmetal composite is about 65%, and the volume fraction of the
primary and the at least one secondary hardphases for the second
hardmetal composite is about 75%.
41. A drill bit for drilling through earth, comprising: a bit body
having teeth extending therefrom, the teeth having a crest along a
leading surface and a gage along a heel surface thereof; a first
hardmetal composite applied to the crest; a second hardmetal
composite applied to the gage; wherein each of the first and second
hardmetal composites comprises a primary and at least one secondary
hardphase encapsulated in a steel matrix comprised of iron powder,
at least one of the primary and at least one secondary hardphases
for each of the first and second hardmetal composites having at
least 15% residual porosity and exhibiting plastic deformation
under pressure, a volume fraction of the primary and the at least
one secondary hardphases for the first hardmetal composite being
smaller than a volume fraction of the primary and the at least one
secondary hardphases for the at least one second hardmetal
composite; and wherein a particulate constituent of the at least
one secondary hardphase has an average particle size smaller than
an average particle size of the primary hardphase.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] Not applicable.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention generally relates to hardmetal
composites used as wear-resistant inlays and surfaces in
earth-contacting tools and a method for their application.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Hardmetal composites inlays and hardfacings are used as
cutting edges and wear surfaces in drill bits and other
earth-engaging equipment. Hardmetal composites generally consist of
a hardmetal such as tungsten carbide, diamond, cubic boron nitride,
or ceramic dispersed in a softer, metal matrix, optionally
including a binder metal as well.
[0004] Tungsten carbide (or carbide) is a hardmetal frequently
chosen for hardfacing abrasive and cutting surfaces on drill bits.
Enhanced performance can be achieved with high carbide loading
(high volume fraction) and large constituent particles. At higher
carbide volume fraction and greater particle sizes, hardness is
increased. However, during forge densification, the carbide
particles are more likely to come into contact with one another,
creating increased porosity and forming bridges susceptible to
cracking and particle fracture. Composites that include carbide
particles with lower hardness and/or smaller particle size can
increase the loading threshold for these defects, but with
attendant sacrifice in wear performance.
[0005] Designs that increase abrasiveness, such as high hardphase
volume fraction and large particle size, often suffer lack of
resistance to impact. Thus, there seems to be an inherent trade-off
between hardness and toughness in the manufacture of hardfacing
materials, limiting levels of achievable hardphase volume
fractions. Prior art suggests that carbide hard phase volume
fractions cannot exceed about 40 vol % to 60 vol %, without
suffering the attendant defects just described.
[0006] Prior art solutions that have most nearly achieved high
hardphase volume fractions while maintaining impact resistance have
addressed the influence of matrix microstructure on deformation
mechanics of hard composites affecting toughness and wear
progressions in drilling service. U.S. Pat. No. 6,045,750 discloses
a powder-forging method producing hard composite coatings that
achieve sintered cemented carbide loading values over about 75 vol
%. However, these coatings are rough and limited in thickness to
about 3.times. particle diameter. For thicker hard composites,
full-density powder forge fabrication is limited to formulations
with hardphase volume fractions of 45 vol % or less, depending on
forging pressure and temperature.
[0007] Thus, a need exists for hard metal composites to be used as
cutting edges and wear surfaces in drill bits and other
earth-engaging equipment, which composites achieve high particle
size and a hardphase volume fraction higher than prior art
achievement, without sacrificing toughness.
SUMMARY
[0008] Embodiments of the present invention generally include a
hardmetal composite that is used as hardsurfacings and inlays in
earth-engaging equipment.
[0009] In one embodiment, the invention is for a hardmetal
composite that achieves large hardmetal particle size and high
hardphase volume fraction while maintaining toughness. The
hardmetal composite has more than one hardphase, with a bi-modal or
multi-modal particle size distribution.
[0010] In an embodiment, the primary hardphase includes hardmetal
particles from 100 to 2000 .mu.m, optionally from 250 to 1000
.mu.m, or optionally from 400 to 800 .mu.m in size. In an
embodiment, at least one of the additional hardphases includes a
particulate constituent capable of plastic deformation that has at
least 1% residual porosity. This hardphase can also include a small
particle size, high binder content, and/or a low hardness, relative
to the primary hardphase.
[0011] In an embodiment, the hardmetal composite includes a
malleable matrix material, such as a steel matrix consisting
essentially of iron powder with an average particle size of less
than 20 .mu.m. In an embodiment, the matrix material further serves
as a malleable shell, encapsulating individual hardmetal
particles.
[0012] In general, the hardmetal is carbide, but can also be chosen
from among other hardmetals, such as diamond, cubic boron nitride,
and ceramic.
[0013] In one embodiment, the hardmetal composite includes three
hardphases and a total hardphase volume fraction of greater than
60%. The primary hardphase includes an average particle size of
from 100 to 2000 .mu.m, a hardness from 900 to 1200 VHN, and 10 to
20 wt % of a Co binder. The secondary hardphase includes an average
particle size from 50 to 300 .mu.m, a hardness of from 1400 to 1800
VHN, and from 3 to 20 wt % of a Co binder. The tertiary hardphase
includes a particulate constituent with at least 1% residual
porosity, an average particle size of from 10 to 60 .mu.m, a
hardness of from 800 to 1200 VHN, and a 10 to 25 wt % of a Ni
binder.
[0014] In one embodiment, the hardmetal composite includes two
hardphases and a total hardphase volume fraction of greater than
70%. The primary hardphase includes an average particle size of
from 100 to 2000 .mu.m, a hardness of from 900 to 1800 VHN, and
from 3 to 16 wt % of a Co binder. The secondary hardphase includes
a particulate constituent with at least 5% residual porosity, an
average particle size of from 10 to 60 .mu.m, a hardness of from
800 to 1400 VHN, and from 10 to 25 wt % of a Ni binder.
[0015] In one embodiment, the invention is for an earth-engaging
tool that employs hardsurfacing made up of multiple carbide
hardphases, varying in particle size, binder content, and hardness,
wherein at least one hardphase includes a deformable constituent
with at least 1% residual porosity. The hardsurfacing includes
large carbide particle size and at least 60%, optionally 70%,
hardphase volume fraction.
[0016] In one embodiment, the invention is a method for forming a
hardmetal composite and applying said composite to a substrate. The
method includes selecting one or more hardphases made up of
hardmetal particles, encapsulating the hardmetal particles in
shells of malleable matrix material, applying the encapsulated
particles to a substrate, and finishing the substrate by
forging.
[0017] In an embodiment, the hardphases display bi-modal or
multi-modal particle size distribution. In an embodiment, the
hardphase volume fraction exceeds 50%, with at least one hardphase
having from 100 .mu.m to 2000 .mu.m average particle size. In an
embodiment, at least one hardphase includes a particulate
constituent capable of plastic deformation that includes at least
1% residual porosity. In an embodiment, the malleable matrix
material makes up from 5 to 60 vol %, optionally from 10 to 40 vol
%, of the encapsulated particles. In an embodiment, the substrate
is an earth-engaging tool, such as a drill bit. The step of
finishing the substrate can include cold isostatic pressing,
heating, and forging.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
[0018] FIG. 1a-c shows a drawing of a hardmetal composite, in which
hardmetal particles are encapsulated in a malleable matrix
material, followed by cold isostatic pressing and forging.
[0019] FIG. 2 is a microscopic photo of the hardmetal composite
described in Example A.
[0020] FIG. 3 is a microscopic photo of the hardmetal composite
described in Example B.
[0021] FIG. 4 is a schematic drawing showing the placement of
hardmetal composites of the surface of the drill bit described in
Example C.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0022] The present invention in its many embodiments is generally
for a hardmetal composite with large particle size and high
hardphase volume fraction. Generally, the composite has at least
one particulate constituent capable of plastic deformation, and the
composite displays bi-modal or multi-modal particle size
distribution. Furthermore, in one embodiment the composite includes
a matrix that can at least partially be present in the form of
malleable shells encapsulating hardphase particles.
[0023] In one embodiment, the hardmetal composite has at least one
particulate constituent of a composition and size and having
residual porosity at a level and size that undergoes
preferential-plastic deformation and densification at forging
temperature under local conditions of elevated pressure associated
with particle contacts. Such constituent is distinct from the main
hardmetal constituent, also known as the primary hardphase.
[0024] When compared to the main hardmetal constituent, the
particulate constituent of the present embodiment generally has at
least one of the following characteristics: relatively small size,
relatively low hardness, relatively high residual porosity, and
relatively high binder content. For example, the particulate
constituent can have an average particle size ranging from 1 .mu.m
to 300 .mu.m, optionally from 5 .mu.m to 100 .mu.m, optionally from
15 .mu.m to 60 .mu.m. The particulate constituent can have a
hardness number less then 1500 VHN, optionally less than 1100 VHN.
The particulate constituent can have a residual porosity between
0.2% and 50%, optionally between 10% and 40%. The particulate
constituent can have a binder (Ni, Co, Ni+Co, Fe+Ni+Co) content
greater than 10 wt %, optionally between 10 wt % and 50 wt %. The
relatively small particle size can increase packing density and the
relatively low hardness can provide plastic accommodation of
densification strains in some of the hardphase as well as the
matrix metal. The higher binder content combined with residual
porosity of the pellets allows more plastic deformation and
differential densification sensitive to local stress conditions.
The particulate constituent is generally a hardmetal, such as
tungsten carbide (or carbide), diamond, cubic boron nitride,
ceramic, or the like. The hardmetal can readily be chosen by one
skilled in the art, according to design specifications. In one
embodiment, the particulate constituent is a sintered cemented
carbide. The hardmetal composite can contain one, or optionally
more than one, of the particulate constituents.
[0025] In an embodiment, the hardmetal composite has bi-modal or
multi-modal distribution of its particle sizes. Such can be the
case in the previous embodiment, when the at least one particulate
constituent has a size significantly different from the main
hardmetal constituent. As large hardmetal particulates are
desirable for enhanced performance in wear surfaces, the main
hardmetal constituent (or primary hardphase) can have an average
particle size from 100 .mu.m to 2000 .mu.m, optionally from 250
.mu.m to 1000 .mu.m, optionally from 400 .mu.m to 800 .mu.m. The
other phase (or phases) can have distinct particle size ranges. A
bi-modal or multi-modal distribution of particle sizes can enhance
the packing density of the hard metal composite and can prevent
undesirable bringing of hardmetal particles.
[0026] In an embodiment, the hardmetal composite has a steel matrix
having iron powder with a particle size less then 50 .mu.m, and
optionally less then 10 .mu.m. The steel matrix can have a
relatively low particle size and relatively low hardness when
compared to the hardphase, which characteristics can provide
benefits such as plastic deformation, increasing the composite's
toughness. The benefits imparted by the steel matrix can be
enhanced when one of the hardmetal phases has a particulate
constituent with a particle size from about 5 .mu.m to 100 .mu.m.
The steel matrix can have from 10 vol % to 50 vol % of the
hardmetal composite, optionally from 20 vol % to 40 vol %.
[0027] In an embodiment, the hardmetal composite includes at least
one constituent with a cobalt binder, at least one constituent with
a nickel binder, and an iron matrix. Such an arrangement can lead
to the formation of tempered martensite halos around the cobalt
binder phase(s), due to nickel and cobalt diffusion and alloying of
the surrounding iron matrix. As a result, the matrix can be
strengthened and the hardmetal composite microstructure can exhibit
increased resistance to the shear localization failure and wear
progression.
[0028] In an embodiment, the particles of the hardphase(s) are
encapsulated in a malleable shell. Such encapsulation can eliminate
the need for powder preforms, and thus, can also eliminate the need
for expensive, custom-made molds. Hardmetal components used in
earth-engaging tools are generally made from preformed components,
which are produced using injection-molding equipment, molds and
drying fixtures specific to each component and a drying oven. It is
generally expensive and time-consuming to produce the molds, and
each time design changes are made, new tooling must be created.
Thus, eliminating the need for preforms can reduce costs and allow
for greater design flexibility.
[0029] According to this embodiment, hardmetal material in a
powder, pellet, and/or granular form is encapsulated in a more
malleable material such as steel, iron, brass, bronze, nickel,
alumina, or the like. The method of encapsulation can be any known
in the art, such as electro-plating, chemical plating, vacuum
deposition, chemical vapor deposition, metal vapor deposition, and
the like. The encapsulated pellets can then be placed in a single
layer, multiple layers, and/or specific locations in a mold for
cold isostatic pressing (CIP). The CIPed part can be around 80%
dense, and after heating and forging, the part can have a density
of or nearly of 100%. The malleable matrix volume can be from 5% to
60%, optionally from 10% to 40%, of the encapsulated particle.
[0030] A further advantage of using encapsulated material for the
hardphase is that the hardphase particles are prevented from
contacting one another, while the soft, malleable material fills
the voids created by packing spherical objects. As a result,
bridging between hardmetal particles and folds and laps in the
forged part can be prevented, increasing the hardmetal composite's
performance and wear resistance. In an embodiment, the hardphase(s)
includes carbide particles encapsulated in steel matrix
material.
[0031] FIG. 1a-c is a drawing that represents what takes place when
encapsulated hard metal particles are applied to the surface of a
tool or other substrate via CIPing and forging. FIG. 1a shows
carbide pellets encapsulated in a malleable material. The malleable
material can be any malleable metal, and the pellets can be any
hardmetal. Although the pellets are shown as carbide pellets in the
drawing, the pellets need not be carbide. FIG. 1b shows the
composite after CIPing. The malleable shells are deformed and fill
the space between the carbide pellets, with some amount of voids.
At this point, the metal composite is about 80% dense. FIG. 1c
shows the composite after forging. At this point, the malleable
material completely fills the spaces between the carbide pellets,
and the composite is nearly 100% dense without damage to the hard
metal particles.
[0032] In general, the hardmetal composite can include any
hardmetal known in the art and useful as components and
hardsurfacings in earth-engaging equipment. Known hardmetals
include tungsten carbide, diamond, cubic boron nitride, and
ceramic, among others. Useful carbides include WC, W.sub.2C, the
WC/W.sub.2C eutectic, and carbide composites. These hardmetals make
up the hardphase of the hard metal composite. The hardphase volume
fraction can be above 50%, optionally above 60%, optionally above
70%, optionally above 80%, optionally above 90%. Except in
embodiments specifically requiring a steel matrix, the matrix
material can be any known in the art in the manufacture of
hardmetal composites. The matrix volume fraction can be less than
50%, optionally less than 40%, optionally less then 30%, optionally
less than 20%, optionally less than 10%.
[0033] The hardmetal composite can be used for components and hard
surfacing in any metal tool wherein resistance to wear and abrasion
is desired. Earth-engaging equipment are one class of tools
eligible for the hardmetal composite of the present invention and
include such tools as reamers, under-reamers, hole openers,
stabilizers and shock absorber assemblies, saws, picks, chisels,
plows, and fluid flow control equipment. The present invention is
particularly suited for abrasive surface and cutting elements in
drill bits, such as roller cone drill bits, fixed cutter drill
bits, rotary cone bits, drag bits, mill tooth bits, cutters on
drill bits, and other parts of the drill bit assembly, including
the core, nozzle, centralizer, and stabilizer sleeve. The invention
can also be used for highly erosive applications such as SAGD
(Steam Assisted Gravity Drainage), an enhanced oil recovery
technology for producing heavy crude oil and bitumen. In one
embodiment, the present invention is for an earth-engaging tool
that employs hardsurfacing made up of multiple carbide hardphases,
varying in particle size, binder content, and hardness, wherein at
least one hardphase includes a deformable constituent with at least
1% residual porosity, optionally at least 5%, optionally at least
10%, optionally at least 15%, optionally at least 20%, optionally
at least 25%, optionally at least 50%. The hardsurfacing includes
large carbide particle size and at least 60%, optionally at least
70%, hardphase volume fraction. The hard surfacing can cover or be
used as an inlay or an integral component for any section of the
tool. In drill bits, the hardsurfacing can be used as
wear-resistant cover or inlay for the teeth or other area
experiencing abrasion, such as surfaces near hydraulic courses. The
hardsurfacing can be applied with a thickness of from 0.010'' to
1.0'', optionally in the range of 0.125'' to 0.375''. Since
multiple hardmetal composite formulas fall within the scope of the
present invention, different formulas can be used for different
areas of the tool. Different formulas can be used in the same area
of the tool, present in a layered fashion.
[0034] Except in embodiments involving encapsulated hardmetal, the
hardmetal composite can be formed and applied to the chosen
substrate by any method known in the art, including such procedures
as spraying, welding, molding, forging, densification, heating,
etc. In an embodiment, the hardmetal composite is produced as a
preform via powder forging and is then applied to the chosen
substrate.
[0035] In one embodiment, the present invention is a method for
applying a component having a hardmetal composite to a substrate to
increase the substrate resistance to wear and abrasion. The method
includes the steps of selecting one or more hardphases including a
hardmetal, encapsulating particles of said one or more hardphases
in a malleable matrix material, applying the desired amount
encapsulated particles to the surface of the substrate, and
finishing the substrate with cold isostatic pressing, heating, and
forging. The substrate can be an earth-engaging tool, such as a
drill bit. The hardmetal of the one or more hardphases can be
tungsten carbide. The one or more hardphases can include at least
two hardphases, which contain tungsten carbide and optional
binders. The at least two hardphases can include a bi-modal or
multi-modal particle size distribution and varying hardness. At
least one of the hardphases can include a particulate constituent
with one or more of the following characteristics: a relatively
small size, a relatively low hardness, relatively high residual
porosity, and relatively high binder content, when compared to the
primary hardphase. The malleable matrix material can include steel
including iron or Nickel powder with a particle size less then 20
.mu.m, and the encapsulation method can be any known in the
art.
[0036] The following examples are meant to provide a greater
understanding of the present invention but are embodiments only and
are not intended to be limiting in any way.
Example A
[0037] A hardmetal composite was formed having three hardphases and
a steel matrix. The three hardphases are herein referred to as the
primary, secondary, and tertiary hardphase. The total hardphase
volume fraction was 65 vol % (77 wt % Carbide).
[0038] The primary hardphase made up 45 vol % of the densified
hardmetal composite and included 16/20 Mesh, 1100 VHN WC-Co
sintered cemented carbide pellets. The pellets ranged in size from
850 .mu.m to 1000 .mu.m with an average particle size of 925 .mu.m.
The primary hardphase contained 14.8 wt % of a cobalt binder. The
relatively high binder content, lower hardness, and increased
toughness of this particulate constituent can allow greater plastic
deformation of pellets, reducing the propensity of bridging cracks
and bridging porosity in the matrix.
[0039] The secondary hardphase made up 6.0 vol % of the densified
hardmetal composite and included 60/200 Mesh, 1625 VHN WC-Co
sintered cemented carbide pellets. The pellets ranged in size from
75 .mu.m to 250 .mu.m with an average particle size of 162 .mu.m.
The secondary hardphase contained 6.0 wt % of a cobalt binder. The
smaller size range can increase packing efficiency and decrease
bridging potential, while higher hardness can imparts wear
resistance.
[0040] The tertiary hardphase made up 14 vol % of the densified
hardmetal composite and included 270/635 Mesh, 1050 VHN, WC-Ni
sintered cemented carbide pellets with 25 vol % residual porosity.
The pellets ranged in size from 20 .mu.m to 53 .mu.m with an
average particle size of 37 .mu.m. The tertiary hardphase contained
17.0 wt % of a nickel binder. The higher binder content combined
with residual porosity of the pellets can allow for more plastic
deformation and differential densification sensitive to local
stress conditions. Full closure of porosity at bridging locations
is accompanied by high deformation ratios, resulting in a highly
loaded composite with low incidence of large voids and bridging
cracks. The fine scale of the tertiary hard phase having commercial
thermal spray powder and even finer scale of its end-residual
porosity serve to increase rather than reduce toughness of the
densified composite hardmetal.
[0041] The steel matrix made up 35 vol % of the hardmetal composite
and included carbonyl iron powder with 0.05 wt % carbon max (BASF
CS Carbonyl Iron Powder). The particle size ranged from 2 .mu.m to
9 .mu.m, with an average particle size of 4 .mu.m. The combination
of this chemistry with diffusional transport of cobalt and tungsten
from primary and secondary sintered pellets and nickel from the
tertiary hardphase created martensitic transformation halos around
the primary and secondary hardphases, strengthening the densified
matrix and increasing wear resistance while retaining substantial
toughness.
[0042] The following table summarizes the composition of the
hardmetal composite of Example A.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Hardmetal composite of Example A. VOL % IN
PELLET SIZE, .mu. WT % INLAY AV. RANGE Co VHN PRIMARY HARDPHASE
45.0 925 850-1000 14.8 1100 SECONDARY HARDPHASE 6.0 162 75-250 6.0
1625 TERTIARY HARDPHASE VOL % IN PELLET SIZE, .mu. WT % INLAY AV.
RANGE Ni VHN 14.0 37 20-53 17.0 1050 MATRIX VOL % IN PELLET SIZE,
.mu. WT % VHN INLAY AV. RANGE Ni (avg.) 35.0 4 2-9 0 500
[0043] The hard metal composite was used in the drill bit described
in Example C, as well as on the inner row teeth of the drill bits
described in Examples E, F, and G. A microscopic photo of the
hardmetal composite is shown in FIG. 2. This photo shows the
trimodal particle size distribution of the hardphase, as well as
the absence of bridging porosity at contact points between the
primary hardphase. The photo also shows uniform distribution of the
tertiary, deformable, hardphase with reduced porosity, and some
desirable deformation induced shape changes in the tertiary
hardphase.
Example B
[0044] A hardmetal composite was formed having two hardphases and a
steel matrix. The two hardphases are herein referred to as the
primary and the secondary hardphase. The total hardphase volume
fraction was 75 vol % (85 wt %).
[0045] The primary hardphase made up 52.5 vol % of the densified
hardmetal composite and included 40/60 Mesh, 1625 VHN WC-Co
sintered cemented carbide pellets. The pellets ranged in size from
250 .mu.m to 425 .mu.m with an average particle size of 338 .mu.m.
The primary hardphase contained 6.0 wt % of a cobalt binder. The
smaller size range can increase packing efficiency and decrease
bridging potential, while the higher hardness can impart wear
resistance.
[0046] The secondary hardphase made up 22.5 vol % of the densified
hardmetal composite and included 270/635 Mesh, 1050 VHN WC-Ni
sintered cemented carbide pellets with 25 vol % residual porosity.
The pellets ranged in size from 20 .mu.m to 53 .mu.m with an
average particle size of 37 .mu.m. The secondary hardphase
contained 17.0 wt % of a nickel binder.
[0047] The steel matrix made up 25 vol % of the hardmetal composite
and included carbonyl iron powder with 0.05 wt % carbon max (BASF
CS Carbonyl Iron Powder). The particle size ranged from 2 .mu.m to
9 .mu.m, with an average particle size of 4 .mu.m. The combination
of this chemistry with diffusional transport of cobalt and tungsten
from primary phase sintered pellets and nickel from the secondary
hardphase created martensitic transformation halos around the
primary hardphase, strengthening the densified matrix and
increasing wear resistance while retaining substantial
toughness.
[0048] The following table summarizes the composition of the
hardmetal composite of Example B.
TABLE-US-00002 TABLE 2 Hardmetal composite of Example B. PRIMARY
HARDPHASE VOL % IN PELLET SIZE, .mu. WT % INLAY AV. RANGE Co VHN
52.5 338 250-425 6.0 1625 SECONDARY HARDPHASE VOL % IN PELLET SIZE,
.mu. WT % INLAY AV. RANGE Ni VHN 22.5 37 20-53 17.0 1050 MATRIX VOL
% IN PELLET SIZE, .mu. WT % VHN INLAY AV. RANGE Ni (avg.) 25.0 4
2-9 0.sup. 500
[0049] The hardmetal composite was used in the drill bit described
in Example C, as well as on teeth in the drill bits described in
Examples D, E, F, G, and H. A microscopic photo of the hard metal
composite is shown in FIG. 3. The photo shows bimodal particle size
distribution of the hardphase, as well as the absence of bridging
porosity at contact points between the primary hardphase. The photo
also shows uniform distribution of the secondary, or deformable,
hardphase with reduced porosity, and some desirable deformation
induced shape changes in the tertiary hardphase.
Example C
[0050] The hardmetal composites of Examples A and B were used to
make MIM (Metal Injection Molded) caps on the cutting structure of
a 121/4'' drill bit. The hardmetal composite of Example A, the
composite with a hardphase volume fraction of 65%, can be referred
to as the "crest mix". The hardmetal composite of Example B, the
composite with a hardphase volume fraction of 75%, can be referred
to as the "gage mix". FIG. 4 is a schematic of the hardmetal
protection placement on the bits. The gage mix covers the gage
teeth's tang (or gage row heel surfaces) 1, and the crest mix
covers the crest of gage 2, as well as the inner and main row teeth
3. All tooth crests have a substantially uniform 0.220'' thick
hardmetal cover. The drill bits were tested in Texas, Alaska,
Louisiana, and Canada. The data for the bit runs is shown in Table
3.
TABLE-US-00003 TABLE 3 Run Feet ROP # Bit Serial # Location Drilled
Hours (ft/hr) Runs K41339 Newton 3994 102.5 39 1 Cty. TX K41340
Liberty 1523 102.0 14.9 1 Cty. TX K41341 Liberty 3605 101.5 35.5 1
Cty. TX K41342 Upshur 281 23.0 12.2 1 Cty. TX K41343 Harrison/ 3505
36.5 96 2 Freestone Cty. TX W24217 Prudhoe 3033 11.5 264 2 Bay AK
W24220 Alberta 1339 15.0 89.2 1 (SAGD) Canada A73408 Vermilion 4973
93.5 53.2 1 Parish LA A73410 Vermilion 1971 83.0 23.7 1 Parish LA
A73409 Vermilion 1173 87.0 13.5 1 Parish LA A73411 Vermilion 304
39.5 7.7 1 Parish LA
[0051] In Texas, five bits were sent to the field with 6 runs and
no bearing failures. The lithology consisted of cross-bedded
sandstone, sandy shale, clay and mudstone. Bit (s/n K41339) drilled
3994 feet in 102.5 hours in a directional well on a motor. The bit
finished with 1,125 k-revolutions, a 191.4% increase over the
offset average. Bit (s/n K41340) drilled 1523 feet in 102 hours in
a vertical well with significant wear in the inner rows and slight
gage rounding approximately 1/4'' off of gage. The ROP was lower
than the offsets because one of the pumps was down. Also, there was
no center jet in the bit. Bit (s/n K41341) drilled 3605 feet in
101.5 hours, 49% more hours than average offsets, in a vertical
well. The nose experienced heavy erosion from the center jet nozzle
as well as significant wear on the inner rows. The ROP was low
again for the same reasons stated above. The other three runs were
short and successful, approximately 20 hours, with high rates of
penetration.
[0052] In Alaska, the lithology consisted of permafrost and
mudstone. Bit (s/n W24217) drilled 1466 feet in 4.9 hours and had
an ROP of 299 ft/hr in a directional well on a motor. The same bit
was re-run a month later and drilled 1567 feet in 6.6 hours. The
cutting structure had worn teeth, slight erosion along with some
gage rounding.
[0053] In Louisiana, all runs were on directional wells with a
motor in the same well and the lithology was "gumbo" which consists
of mostly shale mixed with sand. The first bit (s/n A74308) drilled
4973 feet in 93.5 hours with worn teeth, slight gage rounding, and
erosion on the shirttail near the cutter. The next bit (s/n A73410)
followed the previous bit and drilled 1971 feet in 83 hours with
worn teeth, gage rounding and erosion on the shirttail near the
cutter. The third bit (s/n A73409) drilled 1173 feet in 87 hours
with slight erosion on all teeth. The fourth bit (s/n A73411)
drilled 304 feet in 39.7 hours and reached total depth with a very
green cutting structure; compared with offsets, the bit drilled
further. The rig tried a PDC bit but pulled it for low ROP and went
to the fourth bit. The PDC penetration rate was 6.5 ft/hr while the
third bit before it was 13.5 ft/hr and the fourth bit was 7.7
ft/hr.
[0054] In Canada, the lithology was shale mixed with very abrasive
sand. Bit (s/n W24220) was used for the build in a SAGD (Steam
Assisted Gravity Drainage) pad and drilled 1339 feet in 89.3 hours
on a motor. The cutting structure had worn teeth in all rows with
gage rounding on the gage row teeth. Compared to offsets, the bit
performed average in dull condition and had a competitive ROP.
Example D
[0055] The hardmetal composite of Example B was used on the teeth
(both gage and inner row) of a 91/2'' drill bit. The drill bit was
used to drill laterally through the sandstone reservoir of the
Vincent development of the Northwestern Shelf in Australia. The bit
completed a 501 m interval with an average ROP of 31.5 m/hr. The
ROP is comparable to that insert type bits used in the same
conditions; however, the drill bit of this example drilled a
greater interval with improved wear resistance to the gage area and
improved dull.
Example E
[0056] The hardmetal composites of Examples A and B were used on
the teeth of a 121/4'' drill bit, with the composite of Example A
covering the inner row teeth and the composite of Example B
covering the gage teeth. The bit was used to drill the Fiqa
formation (of limestone and shale) in Fahud field in Oman. It was
run on a positive displacement motor (1.5.degree. bend). In its
4.sup.th run, the bit drilled an interval of 153 m at an average
ROP of 40.80 m/hr. The ROP was 44% better than competitor bits run
in recently drilled offset wells, run on the same motor type under
similar circumstances.
Example F
[0057] The hardmetal composites of Examples A and B were used on
the teeth of another 121/4'' drill bit, with the composite of
Example A covering the inner row teeth and the composite of Example
B covering the gage teeth. The bit was used for drilling in the
Boulder Pinedale Anticline in Wyoming. The bit drilled an interval
of 2500 ft at an average ROP of 147 ft/hr. The ROP was 39% higher
than the offset average, the offsets being defined as all runs in
the same hole size in the same field section within the twelve
months prior to the run of the example bit.
Example G
[0058] The hardmetal composites of Examples A and B were used on
the teeth of another 121/4'' drill bit, with the composite of
Example A covering the inner row teeth and the composite of Example
B covering the gage teeth. The bit was used for drilling in the
Riverside Pinedale Anticline in Wyoming. The bit drilled an
interval of 2542 ft at an average ROP of 203 ft/hr. The ROP was 34%
higher than the offset average, the offsets being defined as all
runs in the same hole size in the same field section within the
twelve months prior to the run of the example bit.
Example H
[0059] The hardmetal composite of Example B was used on the teeth
(both gage and inner row) of a 121/4'' drill bit. The bit was used
for drilling in the Vible Pinedale Anticline in Wyoming. The bit
drilled an interval of 2529 ft at an average ROP of 187 ft/hr. The
ROP was 58% higher than the offset average, the offsets being
defined as all runs in the same hole size in the same field section
within the twelve months prior to the run of the example bit.
[0060] As used herein, the term "deformable constituent" refers to
a hardphase constituent with characteristics such as low hardness,
high binder content, and high residual porosity that give it
plastic-like toughness and an ability to better absorb impacts.
[0061] The term "hardmetal composite" refers to a composite of a
hardmetal such as tungsten carbide, diamond, cubic boron nitride,
or ceramic dispersed in a softer, metal matrix, optionally
including a binder metal as well. A hardmetal composite can be
characterized by its wear resistance and toughness, and has a
certain hardphase volume fraction.
[0062] The term "hardphase" as used herein can refer to either the
entire hardphase of a hardmetal composite, that is, the entire
hardmetal volume fraction. The term "hardphase" can also refer to
an individual hardphase, in situations in which the hardmetal
volume fraction is made up of more than one hardphase.
[0063] Depending on the context, all references herein to the
"invention" may in some cases refer to certain specific embodiments
only. In other cases it may refer to subject matter recited in one
or more, but not necessarily all, of the claims. While the
foregoing is directed to embodiments, versions and examples of the
present invention, which are included to enable a person of
ordinary skill in the art to make and use the inventions when the
information in this patent is combined with available information
and technology, the inventions are not limited to only these
particular embodiments, versions and examples. Other and further
embodiments, versions and examples of the invention may be devised
without departing from the basic scope thereof and the scope
thereof is determined by the claims that follow.
* * * * *